31 October 2017
The Government announced today that it has completed, or started work on, 21 of the 43 actions arising from the recommendations of the Jersey Care Inquiry. The Chief Minister’s formal response to the Care Inquiry’s report highlights the progress made since its publication in July, and explains how the recommended changes are being implemented.
Senator Ian Gorst said “Today marks a significant day for Jersey. The Inquiry identified systemic failings and made eight main recommendations for the future management of our residential and foster homes, and all our services for children and young people. I made it clear in my initial response to the Care Inquiry that I accepted those recommendations. Responding to them will require sustained energy and commitment both now and in the future.
“I am determined that we will provide a safe and secure environment for the children in our care, and that we will continue to improve safeguarding for all our children and young people. This report marks a significant step in achieving this and I hope States Members will support the proposed plans.”
The Jersey Youth Service is working with a group of young people who will be part of the interview process for recruiting a Children’s Commissioner. The Principal Youth Officer, Mark Capern, said “The Care Inquiry made clear the importance of young people having a voice in affairs that affect them and of policy makers listening to children and young people. It’s really important that we make this real and not tokenism, and I’m pleased that a group of young people will play their part in the appointment of the Jersey’s first Children’s Commissioner.”
This is the first phase of government’s plans to implement the Inquiry’s recommendations.
- Nearly £5 million was allocated from 2017-2019 to fund projects, like Baby Steps and Letting the Future In, that help vulnerable children and their families.
- £1.8 million has been set aside to cover the cost of a Children’s Commissioner and associated staffing.
- This report proposes to spend another £2.9 million, and to employ an extra 19 full time staff, to help meet the recommendations.
A Children’s Plan with proposed costings will be presented to the new Council of Ministers in June 2018.
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